Group 17
MARKET STREET REFRESH

The Droylsden MSA Live project is dedicated to revitalising the heart of the town by enhancing public health, promoting social interaction, and improving local connectivity through the transformation of a dull, underused car park into a vibrant community green space. Currently, the site offers little more than concrete and scattered parking spaces, with limited opportunities for residents to connect or enjoy the outdoors. Our aim is to reimagine this space as a welcoming, multi-functional environment that supports wellbeing, encourages interaction, and contributes positively to the local urban fabric. Drawing on on-site observations and feedback from local people, we will explore a series of design iterations that directly reflect community needs. By integrating accessible pathways, seating areas, and diverse planting schemes, the final design proposal will support a healthier, more connected Droylsden. During Action Week, we will produce concept layouts, 3D models, sketches, and visualisations that bring this transformation to life and showcase the power of small-scale, high-impact design.

Clara Evangeline Dorathy ARD / Hanyi Z / Nikhil N / Rebecca S / Toby H / Yakeen A

Toby H
The Droylsden MSA Live project revitalises Droylsden, a town east of Manchester, by enhancing public health, community engagement, and urban greening. A key initiative is the development of a community garden to strengthen local connections and improve accessibility.

To further support connectivity, the project emphasises pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and improved wayfinding to increase footfall in the town centre and boost local businesses.

During Action Week, potential outputs will include mapping, 3D modelling, renderings, and alternative layout options for the community garden. Ultimately, the project aspires to create a healthier, more sustainable, and community-driven urban environment for Droylsden.
Posted 9 Mar 2025 18:58
Rebecca S
We are collaborating with Tameside Council, the governing body of the Metropolitan Borough of Tameside in Greater Manchester. As the primary provider of local government services in the borough, the council plays a vital role in supporting the community. Together, our goal is to create a space that benefits and serves the local community.
Posted 9 Mar 2025 19:06
Toby H
After our initial meeting with our collaborators, we visited the site in the heart of Droylsden. Lena, Carol, and Nigel from Tameside Council guided us through the area, offering valuable insights into the site's history, current state, and development potential. 
Posted 9 Mar 2025 19:09
Toby H
Name: Toby Harris
Course: MArch 1
Atelier: Infrastructure Space

Hi, I am Toby. I grew up in Chicago and completed my bachelor's degree in the US. I have previous work experience in London at Allford Hall Monaghan Morris and Sheppard Robson. I'm excited to wrap up my first year of my master's by participating in MSA Live! I've really enjoyed all the courses at MSA so far and have learned so much already. I can't wait to team up during Action Week to create a meaningful proposal for Droylsden and the Tameside Council. It's going to be an excellent opportunity to make a difference!
Posted 9 Mar 2025 19:14
Clara Evangeline Dorathy ARD
Name: Clara Evangeline Dorathy Amritharaj Rowland Devanand
Course: M.Arch 1
Atelier: Some Kind Of Nature

Introduction: Hello, I am Clara. I was born and brought up in Tamil Nadu, Southern part of India. I have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Anna university, Chennai, India. After graduation I got to work in Chennai for 6 months as Junior Architect and then moved to the UK for my master’s program. I was always interested in working on community-based projects and I am more than happy and privileged to work with my colleagues of MSA to help the Tameside Council in creating a healthy and happy community.
Posted 9 Mar 2025 19:30
Hanyi Z
Name: Hanyi Zhang
Course: Architecture and Adaptive Reuse
Introduction:Hi, I am Zhang Hanyi from China, a graduate of Tongji Zhejiang College with a bachelor's degree in architecture. After finishing my undergraduate studies, I chose to pursue a master's degree in Architecture and Adaptive Reuse to better understand the differences and connections between architectural design, and historic preservation in China and other countries. I am dedicated to respecting the value of existing buildings while introducing flexible design strategies to give them new life.I am happy to collaborate with Tameside Council and look forward to working together during Action Week to bring new energy to the area.
Posted 9 Mar 2025 19:37
Rebecca S
Name: Rebecca Scott
Course: MArch 1
Atelier: Continuity

Hi, I’m Rebecca, and I’m from London. After completing my undergraduate studies in architecture, I worked as an architectural designer at a small London-based practice, working on a range of residential projects, from initial concept development to securing planning approval.

I am currently pursuing a Master of Architecture degree at MSA as part of the Continuity Atelier, which emphasises a thoughtful and sensitive approach to contextual history and heritage in design.

I’m excited to be part of this project in Droylsden and to collaborate with Tameside Council in making a meaningful, positive impact on the community - while working alongside the team to bring our creative vision to life!
Posted 9 Mar 2025 21:12
Yakeen A

Name: Yakeen Mohammed Ali Ahmed
Course: Architecture and Adaptive Reuse
Introduction: Hi, I’m Yakeen from Manchester. I hold an undergraduate degree in Interior Design from Manchester Metropolitan University and am currently pursuing a master’s in Architecture and Adaptive Reuse. I have a strong interest in historical and cultural spaces, exploring how they can be preserved, adapted, and reimagined for contemporary use while creating a dialogue between past and present. I’m excited to collaborate with Tameside Council in Droylsden to create a meaningful impact, focusing on designing solutions that benefit the community and contribute to long-term positive change.
Posted 10 Mar 2025 19:14
Nikhil N
Name: Nikhil Nagar
Course: MArch 1
Atelier: Non-Standard Habitats (NSH)
Introduction: Hi, I’m Nikhil from India. After completing my bachelor's degree in architecture from Manchester School of Architecture (MSA), I worked as an architectural assistant in Delhi, India. They helped me gain experience in high-rise developments and on-site executions of the work. Personally, I have worked on two or three more projects, which required refurbishment. I am currently pursuing a master's degree in architecture to develop a more profound understanding of design ethics and implications.

I’m overwhelmed to collaborate with Tameside Council in Droylsden and looking forward to working with MSA colleagues to design a better and healthier community with an optimistic future.
Posted 10 Mar 2025 20:36
Rebecca S
After our final tutorial, excitement is building as Action Week approaches! We can't wait to meet the rest of the team and kick off the design process. With ideas ready and energy high, we're eager to start this exciting project for Droylsden. Stay tuned for updates as we begin our design journey!
Posted 31 Mar 2025 23:10
Rebecca S
Action Plan Week 1
Posted 6 May 2025 19:48
Rebecca S
Action Plan Week 2
Posted 6 May 2025 19:50